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Oakside Military Heroes #5
Saving Gavin
I let her go before I enlisted. I left my heart with her . Now I’m home for good – my world has changed, my sight gone. Not only do I have to be with her every day as I learn to navigate the world around me, but I have to come face to face with my regrets. She deserves more than me. I need her. I want her. Will she want me again -- the damaged version of the man who broke her heart? This is a steamy military romance and the first book in my Oakside Military Heroes series. Each book can be read as a standalone but as always better together. Follow these strong possessive heroes as they find their forever girls, Oakside Military Heroes
ebook
First published April 1, 2023
172 people are currently reading
422 people want to read
About the author
Kaci Rose
92 books1,386 followersJoin Kaci's VIP mailing list and get 2 FREE Novellas at
http://www.kacirose.com/free-books
Kaci runs on coffee, chocolate, and Oreos. She loves her book boyfriends with tattoos, muscles, beards, and a little dirty.
Kaci loves romance books and has been jotting down ideas since she was in high school and is now putting the ideas down on paper. She believes in satisfying, happily ever afters with a lot of steam on the way.
Follow Kaci Rose
Facebook @KaciRoseAuthor
Instagram @KaciRoseAuthor
http://www.kacirose.com/free-books
Kaci runs on coffee, chocolate, and Oreos. She loves her book boyfriends with tattoos, muscles, beards, and a little dirty.
Kaci loves romance books and has been jotting down ideas since she was in high school and is now putting the ideas down on paper. She believes in satisfying, happily ever afters with a lot of steam on the way.
Follow Kaci Rose
Facebook @KaciRoseAuthor
Instagram @KaciRoseAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
August 19, 2022
LOVED IT!! Absolutely adore second chance romances...Gavin and Lauren are no exception. Six years after he said goodbye, he re-enters her life in tragic circumstances. Life has surprises in store for both of them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 14, 2022
5 Star review of Saving Gavin (Oakside Military Heroes # 5) by Kaci Rose
It was so good to be back at Oakside and Saving Gavin was a great addition to the series which has quickly become one of my favourite. This is a second chance at love story for Gavin and Lauren and what an emotional, heart warming story this was.
Gavin has returned home with injuries that he will never recover from, a man blinded and forced to live in a world of darkness.
Gavin is struggling to move forward with his life as he learns to live without his sight. From the minute they re connect, it is obvious that the connection they once shared is still there. However it is complicated as Lauren is now a therapist at Oakdsie. Can these two come to terms with the past, the secrets that lie between them as well as the present and move forward together ?
It was heartbreaking to watch Gavin and Lauren as they struggle for different reasons and I was cheering for them to get the happily ever after that they both deserved. I was frustrated by Lauren’s mother at times and to be honest I would not have been as forgiving.
The growth of both Gavin and Lauren was heart warming to watch develop and it was great to see some familiar faces make an appearance. Saving Gavin is well written with characters whose story you cannot help but become invested in.
It was so good to be back at Oakside and Saving Gavin was a great addition to the series which has quickly become one of my favourite. This is a second chance at love story for Gavin and Lauren and what an emotional, heart warming story this was.
Gavin has returned home with injuries that he will never recover from, a man blinded and forced to live in a world of darkness.
Gavin is struggling to move forward with his life as he learns to live without his sight. From the minute they re connect, it is obvious that the connection they once shared is still there. However it is complicated as Lauren is now a therapist at Oakdsie. Can these two come to terms with the past, the secrets that lie between them as well as the present and move forward together ?
It was heartbreaking to watch Gavin and Lauren as they struggle for different reasons and I was cheering for them to get the happily ever after that they both deserved. I was frustrated by Lauren’s mother at times and to be honest I would not have been as forgiving.
The growth of both Gavin and Lauren was heart warming to watch develop and it was great to see some familiar faces make an appearance. Saving Gavin is well written with characters whose story you cannot help but become invested in.
August 16, 2022
This series holds my heart, it is so uplifting and beautiful and you cannot help but get caught up the amazing story and romance between the characters. Gavin and Lindsey are so similar to the other characters, but also SO DIFFERENT. Their circumstances definitely put them in a few tight spots, but you can feel the chemistry and love the vibrates through them.
All in all, this story is awesome and if you have not read the others in the series, read them ASAP, because they are great too! There is something so sweet and so pure, though def some spicy moments, in this series that you cannot help but love. I give it 4.5 outta 5 stars and am really looking forward to the next one in the series!
PS: Thank you to Kaci Rose and Give Me Books PR for allowing me an advanced copy of the book to read and review honestly!
All in all, this story is awesome and if you have not read the others in the series, read them ASAP, because they are great too! There is something so sweet and so pure, though def some spicy moments, in this series that you cannot help but love. I give it 4.5 outta 5 stars and am really looking forward to the next one in the series!
PS: Thank you to Kaci Rose and Give Me Books PR for allowing me an advanced copy of the book to read and review honestly!
August 15, 2022
This is the 5th book in this impressive series, and this is Gavin and Lauren’s story. These two were high school sweethearts with their future all planned out, until Gavin leaves to join the military and breaks Lauren’s heart. Gavin has now lost his eyes sight, and needs help with his recovery, and he is assigned to Lauren, who is a therapist at Oakside. Will these two get a 2nd chance at love? This is a well written story which is emotionally charged, with secrets, family, humor, heartbreak, and love, which leads to a riveting and addictive page turner.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
September 5, 2022
These 2 had quite the history, one that I wasn't sure they would be able to get past once Gavin realized what he had left behind with Lauren. I really liked that Lauren wasn't going to hide Graham from Gavin, but wanted to get to know him first before dumping the knowledge that he has a son on him. I was surprised at how well that went, but better was when Graham met Gavin, that was so sweet and Gavin got to see for himself that his son knew about him and didn't hold any bad feelings about him.
I really liked how this one ended, loved to see Gavin get the surgery at the end that helped a bit, loved that the 3 of these people became a family that was ready to spread their love around.
I really liked how this one ended, loved to see Gavin get the surgery at the end that helped a bit, loved that the 3 of these people became a family that was ready to spread their love around.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2024
High school Sweethearts meant to be
Gavin and Lauren were best friends in middle school and became a high school sweethearts. Soul mates perhaps. Gavin hoes off to boot camp leaving Lauren alone after feeling as.if she can do better than him and not asking her to wait. Lauren was devastated but had to go on on with her life. Now Lauren helps the blind get readjusted to the outside world and Gavin is her next patient.
Lauren cannot believe Gavin is here, she has looked for him over the years but lost hope of ever seeing him again. Things for Gavin about Laurens life that intersect with his in the real world come to light and they must navigate the world together.
Neither has had interest in dating anyone else in their lives and after everything is made clear fall back into a nice routine.
Rating: 3.5 Stars
Gavin and Lauren were best friends in middle school and became a high school sweethearts. Soul mates perhaps. Gavin hoes off to boot camp leaving Lauren alone after feeling as.if she can do better than him and not asking her to wait. Lauren was devastated but had to go on on with her life. Now Lauren helps the blind get readjusted to the outside world and Gavin is her next patient.
Lauren cannot believe Gavin is here, she has looked for him over the years but lost hope of ever seeing him again. Things for Gavin about Laurens life that intersect with his in the real world come to light and they must navigate the world together.
Neither has had interest in dating anyone else in their lives and after everything is made clear fall back into a nice routine.
Rating: 3.5 Stars
February 26, 2025
Saving Gavin
Great story! Recovering from military injury that has taken his vision. Learning things all over again and how to approach life. His therapist is someone he knew from his past, how they move on from this is a true testament! This journey is about healing, moving on, finding love, and their own healing hearts.
Great story! Recovering from military injury that has taken his vision. Learning things all over again and how to approach life. His therapist is someone he knew from his past, how they move on from this is a true testament! This journey is about healing, moving on, finding love, and their own healing hearts.
August 19, 2022
Oh this book!! I absolutely LOVED it! Gavin and Lauren went through so much to get their HEA. I felt every single emotion throughout the book 💔😭❤️ So so good! Definitely going to be reading the other books now lol HIGHLY RECOMMEND!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 23, 2022
A*R*C for honest review with no compensation Received from BookSprout
Saving Gavin is book 5 in the Oakside Military Heroes series by Kaci Rose and my first book in this series.
What a great read and will definitely go back to the prior books read more about the people we met at Oakside! Gavin and Lauren deserve a second chance…so emotional, heartwarming, compassionate, struggles and more. Couldn’t put this book down, sleep is certainly overrated.
Saving Gavin is book 5 in the Oakside Military Heroes series by Kaci Rose and my first book in this series.
What a great read and will definitely go back to the prior books read more about the people we met at Oakside! Gavin and Lauren deserve a second chance…so emotional, heartwarming, compassionate, struggles and more. Couldn’t put this book down, sleep is certainly overrated.
November 16, 2025
OMG!!! WOW!! Fab*u*lous Absolutely love this one!! I couldn't put this one down. This was a nice quick, short read.
Gavin and Lauren knew one another in school, they became friends first then started dating. Gavin was in a foster family and Lauren's parents never thought he was good enough for her. Gavin joined the army after graduating high school, Lauren thought they could make it in a long distance relationship. On the day Gavin left for the army he broke up with Lauren leaving her heart broken. Then Gavin is injured, losing his sight and sent to Oakside to help with his recovery. Lauren now works at Oakside when she gets a new patient she doesn't find out it's Gavin until the day she walks into his room. Lauren works with patients who lost their sight helping them navigate the world in a different way. Lauren wants to keep their relationship professional, but Gavin wants to get to know her again. Lauren has a son now who belongs to Gavin but she doesn't want to tell him because she's not sure how he'll take the news she also wants to make sure he's in the right head space. Lauren's parents helped raise her son Graham while she went to college and had a job. Now Lauren's parent live in Arizona helping her grandparent's out. Lauren's parents want her to move to be closer to them so after putting in a few resumes she has a few interviews. Lauren goes to Arizona to spend some time with her parents. When Lauren tells her parents about Gavin being at Oakside they don't take the news very well. Lauren decides she needs to tell Gavin about his son Graham when she returns to Georgia. Gavin takes the news of having a son very well, he wants to get to know Graham. Lauren invites Gavin to her home to have dinner one night but he takes over the cooking with the help of Graham. Gavin is told there is a surgery he could have to regain some of his sight but it's in Baltimore. Gavin doesn't want to leave Lauren and Graham, so he doesn't want the surgery. When Lauren finds out Gavin turned down the surgery she has a talk with him. Gavin decides to have the surgery but after Lexi Saving Noah has her baby because Lauren needs to help out at Oakside while she's on maternity leave. Lauren find out her parents convinced Gavin to join the army convincing him he wasn't good enough for her. Gavin, Lauren and Graham head to Baltimore and met her parents there. Lauren's parents take Graham out to check out the city while Gavin has his surgery. Gavin is in recovery with bandages on for several days. When the bandages finally come off Gavin is able to see shapes, color and objects but he's still doesn't have full sight. Gavin is discharged but has serval doctor's appointments before they head back home to Georgia. Gavin decides he wants to leave Oakside and work with PaisleySaving Easton and her dogs with other's who are blind. So Gavin moves in with Lauren and Graham to have a family he's always wanted. On the first night Gavin asks Lauren to marry him and she tells him yes. Lauren thinks she wants to have more children with Gavin, and grow their family.
Gavin and Lauren knew one another in school, they became friends first then started dating. Gavin was in a foster family and Lauren's parents never thought he was good enough for her. Gavin joined the army after graduating high school, Lauren thought they could make it in a long distance relationship. On the day Gavin left for the army he broke up with Lauren leaving her heart broken. Then Gavin is injured, losing his sight and sent to Oakside to help with his recovery. Lauren now works at Oakside when she gets a new patient she doesn't find out it's Gavin until the day she walks into his room. Lauren works with patients who lost their sight helping them navigate the world in a different way. Lauren wants to keep their relationship professional, but Gavin wants to get to know her again. Lauren has a son now who belongs to Gavin but she doesn't want to tell him because she's not sure how he'll take the news she also wants to make sure he's in the right head space. Lauren's parents helped raise her son Graham while she went to college and had a job. Now Lauren's parent live in Arizona helping her grandparent's out. Lauren's parents want her to move to be closer to them so after putting in a few resumes she has a few interviews. Lauren goes to Arizona to spend some time with her parents. When Lauren tells her parents about Gavin being at Oakside they don't take the news very well. Lauren decides she needs to tell Gavin about his son Graham when she returns to Georgia. Gavin takes the news of having a son very well, he wants to get to know Graham. Lauren invites Gavin to her home to have dinner one night but he takes over the cooking with the help of Graham. Gavin is told there is a surgery he could have to regain some of his sight but it's in Baltimore. Gavin doesn't want to leave Lauren and Graham, so he doesn't want the surgery. When Lauren finds out Gavin turned down the surgery she has a talk with him. Gavin decides to have the surgery but after Lexi Saving Noah has her baby because Lauren needs to help out at Oakside while she's on maternity leave. Lauren find out her parents convinced Gavin to join the army convincing him he wasn't good enough for her. Gavin, Lauren and Graham head to Baltimore and met her parents there. Lauren's parents take Graham out to check out the city while Gavin has his surgery. Gavin is in recovery with bandages on for several days. When the bandages finally come off Gavin is able to see shapes, color and objects but he's still doesn't have full sight. Gavin is discharged but has serval doctor's appointments before they head back home to Georgia. Gavin decides he wants to leave Oakside and work with PaisleySaving Easton and her dogs with other's who are blind. So Gavin moves in with Lauren and Graham to have a family he's always wanted. On the first night Gavin asks Lauren to marry him and she tells him yes. Lauren thinks she wants to have more children with Gavin, and grow their family.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 19, 2022
You take for granted your sight but when its taken away everything changes and that's what happened to Gavin. Once discharged from the military hospital he was transported to a rehab facility. As he's in his room his therapist who is going to help him navigate around comes into his room. When she walks in and introduces herself, she realizes its Gavin her first love and old boyfriend. She turns and leaves and goes to talk to Lexi who runs the place and tells her what happened. Lexi asked if she should get another therapist but Lauren wouldn't hear of it.
Lauren went back to Having room and he was thrilled it was her. He never stopped loving her. The more they worked together the closer them became. Gavin showed her he was in proving with his walking stick as well as Gem his seeing eye dog. He always felt Lauren was holding something back but
Lauren had a trip planned to go surprise her mom in Arizona. When her and her don Graham got off the plane and went yo her parents, it sure was a surprise for her mom. Once Graham was in bed, Lauren told them about Gavin. That he was her patient. Her parents weren't to happy he was back in her life. They didn't have a say anymore.
Once Lauren got back to Gavin, she explained everything to him about having a son and how she tried everything to let him know but being in boat camp they aren't allowed any mail.
Gavin was thrilled he had a son but sad because he will never see him.
After weeks of therapy Having is doing well while at his doctor visit they mentioned a surgery that could help get some of his site back. He would still be legally blind but up close he could see. He wants to get the surgery but doesn't want to leave Lauren or Graham. Noah another owner tells Gavin to talk to Lauren about it. Gavin does and Lauren is in board, traveling to Baltimore and staying with him.
Surgery was a success an Gavin was able to see his son and Lauren as well. Since spirits were high Gavin went a got the ring he wanted to give her all those years ago. Asking Lauren to marry him so they can be a family. Also Gavin asked if she would be willing to let him move in with her and Graham. They moved him in and their family was complete except for being married which is not far off in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lauren went back to Having room and he was thrilled it was her. He never stopped loving her. The more they worked together the closer them became. Gavin showed her he was in proving with his walking stick as well as Gem his seeing eye dog. He always felt Lauren was holding something back but
Lauren had a trip planned to go surprise her mom in Arizona. When her and her don Graham got off the plane and went yo her parents, it sure was a surprise for her mom. Once Graham was in bed, Lauren told them about Gavin. That he was her patient. Her parents weren't to happy he was back in her life. They didn't have a say anymore.
Once Lauren got back to Gavin, she explained everything to him about having a son and how she tried everything to let him know but being in boat camp they aren't allowed any mail.
Gavin was thrilled he had a son but sad because he will never see him.
After weeks of therapy Having is doing well while at his doctor visit they mentioned a surgery that could help get some of his site back. He would still be legally blind but up close he could see. He wants to get the surgery but doesn't want to leave Lauren or Graham. Noah another owner tells Gavin to talk to Lauren about it. Gavin does and Lauren is in board, traveling to Baltimore and staying with him.
Surgery was a success an Gavin was able to see his son and Lauren as well. Since spirits were high Gavin went a got the ring he wanted to give her all those years ago. Asking Lauren to marry him so they can be a family. Also Gavin asked if she would be willing to let him move in with her and Graham. They moved him in and their family was complete except for being married which is not far off in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2022
Ms. Rose delivers another tearful, beautifully written and gripping second-chance, military romance that I thoroughly loved. Saving Gavin is the fifth book in her Oakside Military Heroes series and they just get better and better. Gavin and Lauren's story is one of secrets, love, heartache, tragedy, and hope.
Lauren works at Oakside and when she walks into her next patient's room she was surprised to see the high school sweetheart that left her six years ago, shattering her heart, to join the military. To say that Gavin was surprised as well is an understatement. Feelings quickly came back to the surface but both knew that they had to keep them at bay. Too much time has passed, their lives are different and they have grown into different people. Gavin, struggling with the loss of his sight and the knowledge that he completely turned Lauren's life upside down when he left, has a hard time fighting his feelings. Does he regret leaving her? Definitely. Lauren at the same time keeps pushing the fact that she just wants to hold and comfort Gavin. Secrets and surprises are revealed, lives are changed and hearts are mended.
My heart broke for Gavin and the struggles he faced in losing his sight. The emotions that went through me as both of them struggled with what life had thrown at them, however, they accepted them and faced them head-on together.
This series is one that I have loved right from the start with Saving Noah and is one that I know I will remember forever. Each book gives us a story of hurt, hope and love. I look forward to reading the next one in this series, Saving Logan. I highly recommend picking up Saving Gavin and be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster ride
Lauren works at Oakside and when she walks into her next patient's room she was surprised to see the high school sweetheart that left her six years ago, shattering her heart, to join the military. To say that Gavin was surprised as well is an understatement. Feelings quickly came back to the surface but both knew that they had to keep them at bay. Too much time has passed, their lives are different and they have grown into different people. Gavin, struggling with the loss of his sight and the knowledge that he completely turned Lauren's life upside down when he left, has a hard time fighting his feelings. Does he regret leaving her? Definitely. Lauren at the same time keeps pushing the fact that she just wants to hold and comfort Gavin. Secrets and surprises are revealed, lives are changed and hearts are mended.
My heart broke for Gavin and the struggles he faced in losing his sight. The emotions that went through me as both of them struggled with what life had thrown at them, however, they accepted them and faced them head-on together.
This series is one that I have loved right from the start with Saving Noah and is one that I know I will remember forever. Each book gives us a story of hurt, hope and love. I look forward to reading the next one in this series, Saving Logan. I highly recommend picking up Saving Gavin and be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster ride
April 10, 2024
Ms. Rose delivers another tearful, beautifully written and gripping second-chance, military romance that I thoroughly loved. Saving Gavin is the fifth book in her Oakside Military Heroes series and they just get better and better. Gavin and Lauren's story is one of secrets, love, heartache, tragedy, and hope. Lauren works at Oakside and when she walks into her next patient's room she was surprised to see the high school sweetheart that left her six years ago, shattering her heart, to join the military. To say that Gavin was surprised as well is an understatement. Feelings quickly came back to the surface but both knew that they had to keep them at bay. Too much time has passed, their lives are different and they have grown into different people. Gavin, struggling with the loss of his sight and the knowledge that he completely turned Lauren's life upside down when he left, has a hard time fighting his feelings. Does he regret leaving her? Definitely. Lauren at the same time keeps pushing the fact that she just wants to hold and comfort Gavin. Secrets and surprises are revealed, lives are changed and hearts are mended. My heart broke for Gavin and the struggles he faced in losing his sight. The emotions that went through me as both of them struggled with what life had thrown at them, however, they accepted them and faced them head-on together. This series is one that I have loved right from the start with Saving Noah and is one that I know I will remember forever. Each book gives us a story of hurt, hope and love. I look forward to reading the next one in this series, Saving Logan. I highly recommend picking up Saving Gavin and be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster ride
August 18, 2022
Gavin is wounded in the line of duty, resulting in the loss of his sight. This story takes place in a special rehab facility called Oakside, being book 5 in this series.
This facility is presented as being unusual from the ones I visited in real life in that they have significant people from the veteran's life be part of the treatment team. Would that all rehab situations could be such. This aptly demonstrates well the premise that therapeutic relationships are as important to healing as are treatments and medications.
I enjoyed this story, in part because the author did not belabor the common device of having characters repeat, endlessly, the self talk of why things desired cannot be.
Also, the plot device we have come to call in Hallmark stories, as the "Speed Bump" or "Chuckhole", where an apparent, insurmountable conflict arises, which in this case the issue, was handled well by what should be done anyway - Communication, as opposed to the often bull-headedness of one or more characters.
Being an Army retiree myself, having served in several Branches, Veteran stories sometimes hit a little close to home., In this one, the author requited herself in a way that just, gave me "all the feels".
I received this book as an ARC, and do recommend it as well written and I especially appreciate finding a "Bonus Epilog" on finishing the story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This facility is presented as being unusual from the ones I visited in real life in that they have significant people from the veteran's life be part of the treatment team. Would that all rehab situations could be such. This aptly demonstrates well the premise that therapeutic relationships are as important to healing as are treatments and medications.
I enjoyed this story, in part because the author did not belabor the common device of having characters repeat, endlessly, the self talk of why things desired cannot be.
Also, the plot device we have come to call in Hallmark stories, as the "Speed Bump" or "Chuckhole", where an apparent, insurmountable conflict arises, which in this case the issue, was handled well by what should be done anyway - Communication, as opposed to the often bull-headedness of one or more characters.
Being an Army retiree myself, having served in several Branches, Veteran stories sometimes hit a little close to home., In this one, the author requited herself in a way that just, gave me "all the feels".
I received this book as an ARC, and do recommend it as well written and I especially appreciate finding a "Bonus Epilog" on finishing the story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 19, 2022
This book is just as enjoyable and engaging as the previous books in the Oakside Military Heroes series. Despite the years since Gavin and Lauren separated to go different ways in life, the feelings they had as teenage lovers have not been lost. They were just been pushed down and hidden in order for each of them to move forward in life without the other. Six years have passed since Gavin joined the military and refused to have Lauren become a military wife, following him around the world or being left behind to wait and wonder if he would return. Now Gavin is at Oakside to recover and to transition to a new life without his sight. Lauren is working at Oakside and will be the one to teach Gavin new life skills and help him train a Seeing Eye dog. Hiding their feelings becomes a struggle for both of them, but both are dealing with so many insecurities and doubts that revealing those feelings to the other seems impossible. The secret Lauren is carrying also weighs heavily on her. How will Gavin react to learning he has a son? Could this reunion really lead to the future they once dreamed of together?
This book features wonderful and fascinating characters. Their story is emotional, captivating and so inspiring. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book features wonderful and fascinating characters. Their story is emotional, captivating and so inspiring. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2022
This book was heartbreaking! Yet it was beautiful and gut-wrenching at the same time. Saving Gavin is part of the Oakside Military Heroes series, and each book can be read as a standalone.
Gavin and Lauren have so much chemistry. Their relationship is a mix of secrets, heartache, tragedy, hope, and the most important thing of all - love.
Lauren works at Oakside, and when she walks into a new patient's room, she is blindsided to see her high school sweetheart, that left her six years ago to join the military, shattering her heart in the process. Gavin was also shocked to see his ex.
The feelings that they had for each other in high school quickly bubble to the surface, yet both of them want to keep their feelings at bay. Gavin is struggling with the loss of his sight, and he is gutted to learn that he completely turned Lauren's life on its head when he left. Yet, despite them growing into different people and their lives being incredibly different, Gavin still has a hard time fighting his feelings for Lauren. Lauren wants Gavin to let her in.
In the process, secrets are revealed, and some will be shocking. My heart broke reading Gavin's struggles. I had so many emotions and feelings going through my head as I read their story. This story has the perfect mix of angst and love. It will hit you right in the feels. The whole series is a must-read!
Gavin and Lauren have so much chemistry. Their relationship is a mix of secrets, heartache, tragedy, hope, and the most important thing of all - love.
Lauren works at Oakside, and when she walks into a new patient's room, she is blindsided to see her high school sweetheart, that left her six years ago to join the military, shattering her heart in the process. Gavin was also shocked to see his ex.
The feelings that they had for each other in high school quickly bubble to the surface, yet both of them want to keep their feelings at bay. Gavin is struggling with the loss of his sight, and he is gutted to learn that he completely turned Lauren's life on its head when he left. Yet, despite them growing into different people and their lives being incredibly different, Gavin still has a hard time fighting his feelings for Lauren. Lauren wants Gavin to let her in.
In the process, secrets are revealed, and some will be shocking. My heart broke reading Gavin's struggles. I had so many emotions and feelings going through my head as I read their story. This story has the perfect mix of angst and love. It will hit you right in the feels. The whole series is a must-read!
August 14, 2022
I’m loving my visits to Oakside and I love catching up with the residents as well as making new friends and Saving Gavin is a perfect addition to this emotional and at times heartbreaking series. This is Gavin and Lauren’s time to shine, time to see if this time around love will win the day…..
Gavin has returned home with injuries he won’t recover from, left blind and alone he is recovering at Oakside. Struggling to live in a world of darkness is bad enough but he never expected to find help from his childhood sweetheart, the one he walked away from when he joined the military.
Lauren is a therapist at Oakside and its her job to help Gavin become prepared for life after rehab but from the moment these two meet again, sparks fly and all the love they felt comes flooding back. Problem is Lauren has a secret, one that will affect both their lives so what happens when she opens up to the man who has always held a piece of her heart and soul. One click to find out !!!!!
I was moved by Lauren and Gavin’s heartwarming journey, I swooned and I sighed as I cheered this couple on but what took this book to another level was the real love this couple shared as they learned to overcome the cruel fate life has dealt them. A wonderful read with all the feels.
Gavin has returned home with injuries he won’t recover from, left blind and alone he is recovering at Oakside. Struggling to live in a world of darkness is bad enough but he never expected to find help from his childhood sweetheart, the one he walked away from when he joined the military.
Lauren is a therapist at Oakside and its her job to help Gavin become prepared for life after rehab but from the moment these two meet again, sparks fly and all the love they felt comes flooding back. Problem is Lauren has a secret, one that will affect both their lives so what happens when she opens up to the man who has always held a piece of her heart and soul. One click to find out !!!!!
I was moved by Lauren and Gavin’s heartwarming journey, I swooned and I sighed as I cheered this couple on but what took this book to another level was the real love this couple shared as they learned to overcome the cruel fate life has dealt them. A wonderful read with all the feels.
August 16, 2022
This is book five in The Oakside Military Heroes Series and it is Lauren and Gavin's story and it is definitely a must read. Lauren and Gavin ave history as they had been so in love only for him to break both there heart's by breaking up with Lauren when he joined the military. Year's later and Gavin is seriously injured and now blind so he goes to Oakside hoping that it will help him navigate his new life with the help of the people there. Lauren works at Oakside helping rehabilitate injured vet's giving them what they need to lead a better life not knowing that her new patient is Gavin the one and only man that she ever loved. The connection and chemistry between them was still as strong and intense as it was year's ago but so many thing's have changed for the both of them but will this be there second chance of being together and having the happy ending that they both deserve. Wow this book takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotions that had me in tears along with secret's, betrayal, injury, family, hope,love and some situations that had me turning the pages to see what would happen next and it was so addictive that I can't wait to read more book's in this series.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of this book.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of this book.
August 20, 2022
Such a Wonderful Story . . .
Lauren has a new case at Oakside where she can work with disabled veterans. Her patient lost his sight, so in addition to teaching him how to navigate his environment again, she will be helping him work with a Seeing-Eye dog. She will be meeting him today. She walks through the door and stops in surprise as she stares at her high school love, Gavin. He had told her he didn’t want to do a long-distance relationship and cut it off completely 7 years ago. No letters or contact of any kind. Turning she walked out of the room and back downstairs to talk to her boss.
Lexi knew her story about Gavin and their breakup. But Lauren may be the one who can best help Gavin through this. So Lexi won’t reassign her yet until they see how things go. Regardless, Lauren will never give up on him. First lesson, this isn’t personal. He is her patient. They work together while he learns how to deal with his new situation. So by the time they trust each other, she has some very important news to tell him. How will he react? Is there any chance they can love each other again? Or have they truly never stopped loving?
Lauren has a new case at Oakside where she can work with disabled veterans. Her patient lost his sight, so in addition to teaching him how to navigate his environment again, she will be helping him work with a Seeing-Eye dog. She will be meeting him today. She walks through the door and stops in surprise as she stares at her high school love, Gavin. He had told her he didn’t want to do a long-distance relationship and cut it off completely 7 years ago. No letters or contact of any kind. Turning she walked out of the room and back downstairs to talk to her boss.
Lexi knew her story about Gavin and their breakup. But Lauren may be the one who can best help Gavin through this. So Lexi won’t reassign her yet until they see how things go. Regardless, Lauren will never give up on him. First lesson, this isn’t personal. He is her patient. They work together while he learns how to deal with his new situation. So by the time they trust each other, she has some very important news to tell him. How will he react? Is there any chance they can love each other again? Or have they truly never stopped loving?
August 21, 2022
2nd Chances
Kaci Rose continues her amazing Oakside Military Heroes series with Saving Gavin. This is the fifth book in the series. Kaci is able to touch on the evil side of war as well as giving returning soldiers their peace. Each soldier in the series struggles with different demons upon returning. Oakside is a safe haven for them to heal emotionally and physically.
Gavin has returned stateside blinded by an attack overseas. His body has healed. He has to learn how to live again without his sight. When he lands at Oakside, his life takes an unexpected turn. Gavin's encounter with his therapist opens up more feelings than he was prepared.
Lauren Ellis was able to complete her college degree along with the help of her parents. She had given up on ever seeing her high school boyfriend. Their last night together left her with a piece of him. She is beyond shocked to discover the identity of her new client. She struggles with keeping her secret while helping Gavin to have freedom again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Kaci Rose continues her amazing Oakside Military Heroes series with Saving Gavin. This is the fifth book in the series. Kaci is able to touch on the evil side of war as well as giving returning soldiers their peace. Each soldier in the series struggles with different demons upon returning. Oakside is a safe haven for them to heal emotionally and physically.
Gavin has returned stateside blinded by an attack overseas. His body has healed. He has to learn how to live again without his sight. When he lands at Oakside, his life takes an unexpected turn. Gavin's encounter with his therapist opens up more feelings than he was prepared.
Lauren Ellis was able to complete her college degree along with the help of her parents. She had given up on ever seeing her high school boyfriend. Their last night together left her with a piece of him. She is beyond shocked to discover the identity of her new client. She struggles with keeping her secret while helping Gavin to have freedom again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 20, 2025
At first I hate Gavin. He left Lauren due to his own insecurity and never try to contact her at all during almost 7 years. His reason is classic "I'm not good enough for you, I want to prove myself, and I don't want to hurt you." and I don't like it at all. After their separation, Lauren found out she's pregnant but has no way to contact him. Proceeding to be a single mom at young age.
But if you reading it until the end you will find plot twist
But if you reading it until the end you will find plot twist
August 16, 2022
Review -
Great story from start to finish. I haven’t read the previous stories but it was very easy to follow along. It was great and I can’t wait to read more and learn about the others stories how they came , met and fell for the other…
It’s about helping the soldiers who been injured in active duty.
Gavin and Lauren have been best friends that turned them in love with each other in high school but her parents like most parents of girls will turn their lives and mess them up for years to come. Now 7 years later Gavin and Lauren are reunited but now she’s his nurse and he lost his sight. She gets him set up but will she make room in her broken heart for the name she ever loved? What will Gavin do when he learns of her secret??
Blurb-
I let her go before I enlisted. I left my heart with her.
Now I’m home for good – my world has changed, my sight gone.
Not only do I have to be with her every day as I learn to navigate the world around me, but I have to come face to face with my regrets.
She deserves more than me.
I need her.
I want her.
Will she want me again -- the damaged version of the man who broke her heart?
Great story from start to finish. I haven’t read the previous stories but it was very easy to follow along. It was great and I can’t wait to read more and learn about the others stories how they came , met and fell for the other…
It’s about helping the soldiers who been injured in active duty.
Gavin and Lauren have been best friends that turned them in love with each other in high school but her parents like most parents of girls will turn their lives and mess them up for years to come. Now 7 years later Gavin and Lauren are reunited but now she’s his nurse and he lost his sight. She gets him set up but will she make room in her broken heart for the name she ever loved? What will Gavin do when he learns of her secret??
Blurb-
I let her go before I enlisted. I left my heart with her.
Now I’m home for good – my world has changed, my sight gone.
Not only do I have to be with her every day as I learn to navigate the world around me, but I have to come face to face with my regrets.
She deserves more than me.
I need her.
I want her.
Will she want me again -- the damaged version of the man who broke her heart?
August 15, 2022
I have come to love each and every one of the stories in this series and this one met up to my expectations.
We are back in Oakside. A place where thanks to a fallen soldier, his sister and her husband, is a place of recovery and reintegration to civilian life for those injured while serving their country.
Gavin has been transitioned to Oakside after an injury left him blind. Little do either Gavin and Lauren know is that she will be the therapist helping him navigate his “new” world with the help of a seeing eye dog.
Both are shocked. The last time they saw each other , he had left her behind after enlisting. She was left heartbroken and with an unexpected surprise. Throughout the years, he never forgot her.
The story is touching, at times heartbreaking as well as heartwarming. It’s a story about family, sadly sometimes creating more hurts and derailing lives. It’s also a story about second chances in life and love and new beginnings. Another winner in this already much loved series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Booksprout. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
We are back in Oakside. A place where thanks to a fallen soldier, his sister and her husband, is a place of recovery and reintegration to civilian life for those injured while serving their country.
Gavin has been transitioned to Oakside after an injury left him blind. Little do either Gavin and Lauren know is that she will be the therapist helping him navigate his “new” world with the help of a seeing eye dog.
Both are shocked. The last time they saw each other , he had left her behind after enlisting. She was left heartbroken and with an unexpected surprise. Throughout the years, he never forgot her.
The story is touching, at times heartbreaking as well as heartwarming. It’s a story about family, sadly sometimes creating more hurts and derailing lives. It’s also a story about second chances in life and love and new beginnings. Another winner in this already much loved series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Booksprout. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
August 15, 2022
An emotional story of love after loss. Lauren has moved on with her son Graham after the love of her life, Gavin, joined the military. Although she wrote him many letters, he never responded. She loves her job at Oakside assisting wounded veterans recover and return to civilian life. When she visits with her new client, a veteran who has lost his sight, she is stunned to see Gavin, her Gavin. He recognizes Lauren’s voice, but why is she here? She offers him a lifeline, even though he’s not sure he deserves it. He joined the military and stayed out of her life as he never felt that he was good enough for her. As they work together for him to gain as much independence as possible, the feelings they once shared can’t be denied. She knows she must tell him about Graham, but first she must be sure that he is still the good man that she loved, and still loves. What an absolutely beautiful love story with engaging characters and updates on previous characters in this wonderful series! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
August 16, 2022
This is the story about Gavin and Lauren. Lauren has been hired to help Gavin deal with his new blindness and get acclimated to his new life after he is injured during battle. But what he doesn't know, and she doesn't know until they meet is that they are high school exes.
This was a wonderful military, surprise daddy and second chance romance for both Lauren and Gavin, who find each other years later. They both are just as in love with each other, but they also have to deal with her major secret and his breaking her heart after he signs up for the military.
This was a fast read. I really love this romance series. It is told in a dual POV with Lauren and Gavin, but we also get some chapters with Lexi's side of things and i truly loved seeing how her romance has progressed over the years. It does easily stand-alone but you will love it even more if you have read the previous books in the series.
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a wonderful military, surprise daddy and second chance romance for both Lauren and Gavin, who find each other years later. They both are just as in love with each other, but they also have to deal with her major secret and his breaking her heart after he signs up for the military.
This was a fast read. I really love this romance series. It is told in a dual POV with Lauren and Gavin, but we also get some chapters with Lexi's side of things and i truly loved seeing how her romance has progressed over the years. It does easily stand-alone but you will love it even more if you have read the previous books in the series.
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2022
Another amazing story in this amazing series! Lauren has a new patient at Oakside, but is shocked to find it is her ex-boyfriend Gavin. Gavin has lost his sight but he instantly recognises Lauren’s voice, the one he never stopped loving. Gavin thought he was doing the right thing ending things before he joined the military so she could move on with her life, but he doesn’t realise Lauren is hiding a secret from him that would make him question what he done. Lauren’s job is trying to get him to adapt to his new life, and she doesn’t want anything to hinder that, however when her own feelings start resurfacing again, it isn’t long before lines are crossed, but with her own secret, things could potentially get messy. A really great story with fantastic characters. This book will have you on an emotional rollercoaster, I was in tears at parts and so heartwarming in others. I absolutely love this series, one of my all time favourites! Definitely recommend, can’t wait for the next one!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 28, 2022
I loved this book, it’s characters, and all the feels it offers. Lauren and Gavin are fantastic characters and their second chance is a unique one since he’s got a long road to recovery ahead of him. Add in a son he doesn’t know about, a secret he never shared, a love never forgotten, and heat that only gets hotter and you have one amazing romance.
Lauren and Gavin were inseparable growing up but that all ended when he left for the military. Not wanting her to put her life on hold and not believing he was good enough for her, he walked away and broke her heart. Now years later, he lost his vision in an accident, and she’s been assigned to help him adjust to the world again. Love never left either of them but there are secrets between them that will need to be worked through before they have another chance at their HEA. I really loved these characters and this book. This is definitely a must read.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lauren and Gavin were inseparable growing up but that all ended when he left for the military. Not wanting her to put her life on hold and not believing he was good enough for her, he walked away and broke her heart. Now years later, he lost his vision in an accident, and she’s been assigned to help him adjust to the world again. Love never left either of them but there are secrets between them that will need to be worked through before they have another chance at their HEA. I really loved these characters and this book. This is definitely a must read.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 24, 2024
I’m not a fan of second chance romances unless we get to live through everything right along with the characters. In this case we don’t. Lauren is working at Oakside and gets assigned a blind patient. She walks into the room and it’s her ex boyfriend Gavin. Gavin and Lauren were with each other 6 years prior until he abruptly enlisted into the military and ended things. Lauren has a secret she’s kept from him for all these years and even now that they are in the same place she doesn’t tell him for most of the book. Lauren doesn’t want a relationship with Gavin while he’s her patient but yet proceeds to do things like wear a bikini and when he asks if it’s a sexy 2 piece she tells him to “come and find out”. That is not something you tell your patient 🙄 the last 40% was so much better and questions were answered and we understood a little more about what happened. I’m confused with the epilogue though. It’s Logan which is the book after the next but the next book is Ethan’s. Shouldn’t he be in the epilogue? Weird.
January 5, 2025
SAVING GAVIN by Kaci Rose is A Second Chance Military Romance. Oakside is a place that Soldiers come to be rehabilitated from all sorts of wounds, disabilities, and mental problems such as PTSD. I really liked this story and how it ends!
This story starts with a young woman named Lauren who looks forward to meeting a new patient at Oakside and do everything she's able to help him. He is totally blind, but Lauren is surprised and knows exactly who Gavin is, he is the boyfriend from high school who she loved with all her heart and still did to this day. We broke up after we graduated since she was going to college, he decided to join the military. Seven years have passed but fate was going to send them a twist. Lauren wasn't at all sure she was the right person to help him, but she was not willing to give up on him. He wanted no one but her to help him adjust. Lauren was a mother to a 6-year-old boy that looked exactly like Gavin and had never met his Daddy! Fate had not brought them together for them to fail and come what may they'd face it together.
This story starts with a young woman named Lauren who looks forward to meeting a new patient at Oakside and do everything she's able to help him. He is totally blind, but Lauren is surprised and knows exactly who Gavin is, he is the boyfriend from high school who she loved with all her heart and still did to this day. We broke up after we graduated since she was going to college, he decided to join the military. Seven years have passed but fate was going to send them a twist. Lauren wasn't at all sure she was the right person to help him, but she was not willing to give up on him. He wanted no one but her to help him adjust. Lauren was a mother to a 6-year-old boy that looked exactly like Gavin and had never met his Daddy! Fate had not brought them together for them to fail and come what may they'd face it together.
August 16, 2022
Once more, Kaci Rose has delivered another enthralling hypnotic read. I reached for my tissues again and again as I was swept away by the depth of Saving Gavin. Oakside Military just keeps getting better and better this is truly a very special series.
When Lauren walked into Gavin's room at Oakside she was not expecting to come face to face with the only man she ever loved and the one who shattered her heart, now blind from an explosion while serving his country Gavin is at Oakside to prepare for the world in a completely different way, what he wasn't expecting was the only woman he ever loved who's heart he broke to be the one to help him, feelings resurface and the more time they spend together the more Gavin opens up to why he broke up with Lauren, but more secrets will be revealed and Gavin and Lauren's road will become that little bumpier until they have their happily ever after!
I truly cannot speak highly enough of this series, each couple has held my attention, and each story has stolen a bit of my heart.
When Lauren walked into Gavin's room at Oakside she was not expecting to come face to face with the only man she ever loved and the one who shattered her heart, now blind from an explosion while serving his country Gavin is at Oakside to prepare for the world in a completely different way, what he wasn't expecting was the only woman he ever loved who's heart he broke to be the one to help him, feelings resurface and the more time they spend together the more Gavin opens up to why he broke up with Lauren, but more secrets will be revealed and Gavin and Lauren's road will become that little bumpier until they have their happily ever after!
I truly cannot speak highly enough of this series, each couple has held my attention, and each story has stolen a bit of my heart.
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